Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Blue's Prophecy Blog Tour

FROM GOODREADS: Two genetically altered
dogs, two different fates. One is Robo, a beloved Great Dane, who is
tricked out of the embrace of his human family and then is horribly
altered by an evil scientist who rebuilds him with robotic parts,
weaponizing the dog for money from the military. But that s not all the
scientist does the experiments he conducts leave Robo a genius, almost
immortal and with powers beyond explanation. But the horror Robo
experiences at the scientist's hands changes him driving him insane with
the sole mission to destroy all humans, especially those who have
tortured and hurt dogs.

Meanwhile, a scrappy alley husky
sits in a shelter, when she with her blue eyes and tough wolf-like
features captures the attention of another group of scientists desperate
to stop Robo from his path of destruction. This dog, called Blue, could
be the chosen one to fight and defeat Robo. She is also genetically
enhanced and left with glowing turquoise eyes before being released to
face Robo s vicious dog army. Her mission: save human civilization and
the packs of dogs she's grown to love.

MY THOUGHTS: I
was quite happy to join the blog tour for Ross' first book, Blue's
Prophecy because when I saw the cover, I'm pretty sure it was love at
first sight. I'm also really impressed that the author is so young (13)
and this is her first publication. While some areas of the book
presented some problems for me, overall it was a quick, action-packed
read and I can see quite a few middle-graders, young adults and even
adults enjoying this one as well.

There are two main characters
in the book, a Great Dane named Robo and a Husky mix named Blue. Robo
used to have a loving family but because of a crazy scientific vet who
wants to use dogs as military weapons, he is ripped away from his human
family and made into some cyborg/dog hybrid. This triggers a lot of
anger in Robo so he eventually escapes and become leader of movement
made up of dogs who are out to end the human race. Robo is consumed by
hate and considers no human worthy of being saved. Blue has been a stray
all her life and has known very little love. However, she meets two
young pups who she rescues from getting hit and slowly but surely,
starts showing a softer side. In addition, Blue is also genetically
enhanced but is just learning to use her powers. Blue becomes "The
Chosen One" and starts a rebellion to stop Robo and his evil plan.

I
really liked the underlying message of this book. Pretty much it shows
the canine/human bond and what happens when "bad" dog owners intervene.
There are lots of different breeds throughout the book and the book is
never dull. The reason why I didn't rate is higher than 3/5 is basically
due to personal preference. I have a really hard time reading books
with dog violence and death, even when it's done by other dogs. The book
was written well and none of what occurred was in bad taste. However,
it's just hard for me to stomach. In addition, there is a cliffhanger at
the end and I sort of wished it had just been a stand alone novel.

That
being said, Ross should be proud of her accomplishment and I will
definitely be keeping an eye open for any future works. I will also more
than likely pick up any sequel because I have gotten attached to quite a
few characters in the book and I really want to know what happens next.

RATING: 3 PAWS

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Emily Ross, 13, is a fifth generation writer and
an owner of three dogs, Balta, Buddy and Zoey. Her prose exceeds her years,
with Emily starting work on Blue's Prophecy, a science fiction/fantasy
book for pre-teens and teens, when she was 10. Living in Atlanta, Emily is
also an animator and a skilled archer, and relaxes by playing the double bass
in her middle school orchestra.

Oh wow, to be so young and do such a good job. Third generation writer, I think she has had some good coaches...lol. :) This sounds like a really interesting book so I am going to put it on my wishlist.

I can't even imagine writing a book when I was 13 - I was way too caught up in angst probably! Great review and it does sound like a good read - although like you I struggle with violence against dogs in novels.